The number of patients with diabetes is rapidly increasing worldwide and in Turkey. Diabetes, which can lead to serious complications such as nerve damage, heart and kidney diseases, vision loss and limb loss when left untreated, can be controlled with lifestyle changes and medication. Anadolu Medical Centre Hospital Cardiology Specialist Prof. Dr. Nevrez Koylan gave 11 important recommendations to patients in the fight against diabetes.
Keep Your Blood Sugar Level Under Control
Prof. Dr. Koylan said, “Let your doctor determine the target blood sugar range and make an effort to maintain this range. Check your blood sugar regularly and take your diabetes medication when necessary.”
Eat a Healthy Diet
“A diabetes-friendly diet helps you keep your blood sugar levels under control and maintain a healthy weight. Make sure you eat enough fruit, vegetables and whole grains. Avoid fatty and processed foods,” Koylan added.
Exercise Regularly
Koylan, who recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-paced exercise per week, said, “Regular exercise helps to lower your blood sugar levels, lose weight and improve your overall health.”
Stay Away From Smoking
“Quitting smoking significantly reduces the risk of complications of diabetes. Join a programme to quit smoking or talk to your doctor,” Koylan said, stressing the importance of staying away from cigarettes.
Maintain Regular Medical Check-ups
“Your doctor will check you regularly to detect and treat complications of diabetes early. Participate in screenings such as eye and foot examinations and kidney function tests.”
Keep Your Blood Pressure Under Control
“High blood pressure increases the risk of diabetes. Aim to keep your blood pressure below 130/80 mmHg,” Koylan said and drew attention to the importance of blood pressure control.
Closely Monitor Your Cholesterol Level
Prof. Dr Koylan said, “High cholesterol levels increase the risk of heart disease. Aim to keep your LDL (bad) cholesterol below 100 mg/dL and your HDL (good) cholesterol above 40 mg/dL.”
Pay Attention to Foot Health
“Diabetes can cause nerve damage and poor blood circulation in the feet. Check your feet every day and report any cuts, sores or swelling to your doctor quickly,” Koylan added.
Manage Stress in Your Life
“Stress can raise your blood sugar levels, so give healthy and calming ways such as exercise, yoga or meditation a chance to keep it under control,” Koylan said, emphasising the importance of stress management.
Brush Your Teeth Regularly and Use Dental Floss
Koylan said, “Diabetes increases the risk of gum diseases. Always brush your teeth twice a day and use dental floss every day.”
Keep in Regular Contact with Your Doctor
“Do not hesitate to talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about the management of your diabetes,” Koylan said, reminding the importance of communication with the doctor.